About PathologistsFind a Doctor
Pathologist focuses primarily on the identification and diagnosis of diseases through the analysis of organs, tissues, and bodily fluids. They specialize in the study of samples removed from the body surgically (biopsy) as well as inspecting the whole body (autopsy.)
A pathologist examines the causes, pathways and spread of diseases in the body by identifying abnormalities and changes in the functions of the human body and its parts. In order to analyze and identify these changes, Pathologists study tissues and fluids removed from the body through biopsy or other means such as blood tests and urine tests.
Pathologists have extensive knowledge of laboratory analysis as well as training in the subjects of chemistry, microbiology and hematology. They have the expertise and training to perform toxicology tests, conduct post-mortems and provide other medical specialists with reports and findings based on analysis of samples.
Laboratory analysis of bodily fluids can include blood, urine and tissue samples as well as other specimens such as semen, saliva, cervical fluid, and fluids surrounding the lungs and heart.
Analysis of samples allows Pathologists to identify the presence of cancerous or non-cancerous anomalies, diagnose immune diseases and determine cause of death.
Pathologists work in conjunction with a multitude of medical specialists across many fields of medicine including collaborating with Geneticists, Oncologists, Dermatologists, Rheumatologists, Vascular/Phlebologists and Nephrologists to provide accurate identification, prevention and diagnosis of disease within the body.